Established in 1976, Down Home has, for a long time headed the mantle of being the ultimate live music haunt in Johnson City. Featuring live music on most days of the week, this unassuming yet intimate concert venue has splendid acoustics and amazing speakers, which can give any modern concert venues a run for their money. Walk in to enjoy a wide range of music right from rock-n-roll and pop music to the country and blues music. Legends like Bela Fleck, Townes Van Zandt, as well as famous contemporary bands like Sons Of Bluegrass and Mandolin Orange have graced the stage at Down Home in the past.
And if you think you can match up to the talents of these performers, then visit the venue on Wednesdays for the Open Hoot night, where you get a chance to perform in front of the crowd. The venue has an extensive beer and wine list, which you can pair with a selection of delicious small bites to eat.
Situated off Lee Highway in Abingdon, The Arts Depot was established in the year 1990. This arts center was setup to encourage talented local artists in the area. It is home to several well-equipped art studios and a spacious art gallery. These artists can choose to become members of The Depot Artists Association and can showcase their art pieces here. These exhibitions feature artworks that are made with various mediums like watercolors, acrylic colors, oil paint, clay, textiles and more. In addition to art exhibitions, several other events like painting classes and fundraisers are held here.
Stretching across the Abingdon-North Carolina border, the Virginia Creeper Trail is 34.3 mile (55.20 kilometers) trail used for a multitude of outdoor activities such as biking, hiking and horseback riding. This scenic rail-to-recreation trail begins in Abingdon, snaking its way through Damascus before it halts beyond the Whitetop Station. On the way, visitors are surrounded by lush greenery, small brooks and waterfalls, arched bridges and sunlit paths. There are several visitor's centers along the path, namely the Damascus Caboose, the Green Cove Station and the Whitetop Station. Several bike rental agencies dot the area near Whiteop and Damascus, perfect for those who fancy an early morning ride.
Located in the beautiful countryside in Virginia, White’s Mill is a historic building that was built in the mid-19th century. This old grist mill is a part of National Register of Historic Places. Since its inception, this mill is known to have been serving the neighborhood by providing freshly-ground grains. The historic structure has been restored several times and is open for tours that give us an insight into mill’s history. Much of the original tools and equipments are retained here and are also functional.
Set in Washington County in the state of Virginia, Abingdon Historic District is home to several historic buildings and structures that were built between the 18th and 20th centuries. It includes a number of public, commercial and residential buildings. Some of these are James Fields House, Sinking Spring Cemetery, Martha Washington Inn, Alexander Findlay House, Barter Theatre and many others. This interesting area is part of the National Register of Historic Places. Tourists can take a stroll through this historic district and learn about the community’s rich history and culture.
Spread across an area of nine acres (3.6 hectares), Abingdon Muster Grounds is part of the 330-miles (531 kilometers) long Overmountain Victory Trail. In 1780, on this historic grounds the Overmountain Men and forces from other nearby states joined hands to defeat British Major Patrick Ferguson and his army. Abingdon Muster Grounds currently is home to the Keller Interpretive Center. This interactive center gives us a peek into the lives of the Overmountain Men, Native Americans, African-Americans and many others during the 18th century.
Forget you are still living in the 21st century as you step into the Backyard Terrors Dinosaur Park. Boasting of life-size dinosaurs lurking around every corner, the park is sure to give you the creeps. The realistic creations are actually made of skin like substance and not plastic or paper mache that lends the figures quite an authentic feel. If the models weren’t enough, there are also signs that classify the dinosaur species and state its characteristics. Though plenty of dinosaur types can be found here like the Utahraptor, it’s the animatronic Velociraptor display that steals the show. A fossil dig site and a Mesozoic nature trail can also be found here. Note that although admission to the site is free, donations are greatly appreciated.
Established in 1903, Mountain Home National Cemetery is spread over 99.7 acres (40.3 hectares). Home to over more than 10,000 veteran soldiers. Many war heroes such as Junior James Spurrier and Thomas Smith are interred here.
Built between 1775 and 1780, The Carter Mansion is the oldest frame house in Tennessee along the Watauga River . The house was built by John Carter and his son Landon on the land bought from Cherokee Indians. The historic structure is believed to be the first house to have glass windows. Open between May - August, the house can be visited by appointments only.